India’s ODI Squad Selection Dilemmas for 2025: Who Will Make the Cut?
With the 2025 Champions Trophy fast approaching, India’s selectors are facing tough decisions on the composition of the squad. After a limited number of ODIs in the lead-up to the tournament, many key players’ form and fitness remain uncertain. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments and the key selection challenges India faces.
Will Yashasvi Jaiswal Be Picked for ODIs?
Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a star in Test cricket and T20Is, but the question on everyone’s mind is: will he be selected for India’s ODI squad? Although he has yet to play an ODI for India, his domestic 50-over stats are hard to ignore:
- 1,511 runs in 32 innings
- 5 centuries and 7 fifties
- Average of 54 and Strike rate of 86.19
In 2024, Jaiswal replaced Shubman Gill in the T20I squad, but Gill’s strong partnership with Rohit Sharma in the 2023 ODI World Cup may leave Jaiswal out of the starting XI. However, his left-handed batting could provide balance to India’s top order. Ruturaj Gaikwad, B Sai Sudharsan, and Rajat Patidar have also been contenders for the opening spot, but Jaiswal’s consistent run-scoring could give him the edge.
Does Ravindra Jadeja Still Have a Place in the Squad?
Ravindra Jadeja, a key allrounder, hasn’t played an ODI since the 2023 World Cup, and questions are being raised about his future in the format. Several emerging allrounders like Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, and Washington Sundar are pushing for spots, making it uncertain whether Jadeja will retain his place in the squad.
His competition includes:
- Axar Patel, who has shown significant improvement with both bat and ball
- Shivam Dube, a solid option for batting depth and spin
- Washington Sundar, a dependable option with the ball in middle overs
While Jadeja’s spin and batting in the middle order have been critical in the past, his recent lack of international appearances could hinder his chances.
Who Will Be India’s Second Wicketkeeper?
With KL Rahul set to remain the first-choice wicketkeeper, the backup wicketkeeper spot remains a key point of interest. Sanju Samson had been the backup during the 2023 ODI World Cup, but Rishabh Pant has returned after recovering from a car accident and may get the nod over Samson.
- Sanju Samson: A proven run-scorer, but his omission in recent squads raises questions.
- Rishabh Pant: A destructive batter who can provide flexibility in the middle order.
The backup keeper role is still undecided, but Samson could be considered based on his recent performances.
Bumrah and Shami’s Fitness: Are They Ready?
Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami have been crucial in India’s ODI World Cup run, but both are coming off injuries. Bumrah’s fitness remains a concern after missing the 2024 Sydney Test, and Shami is recovering from knee surgery.
Key updates on their fitness:
- Jasprit Bumrah: The BCCI has not yet revealed details about his injury. His status for the Champions Trophy will be determined after further assessments.
- Mohammad Shami: After ankle surgery in February 2024, Shami’s return is also under scrutiny. His participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy playoffs will be a key factor in his selection.
If either player isn’t fit, Mohammad Siraj and Arshdeep Singh could lead the pace attack, with Hardik Pandya offering vital backup.
The Spinning Options: Will Kuldeep Yadav Make It?
The biggest spinning dilemma is Kuldeep Yadav, India’s leading wrist spinner. Currently recovering from a hernia surgery, his match fitness is uncertain, and if he isn’t ready, India’s spin options will revolve around Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar.
- Kuldeep Yadav: India’s leading wrist-spinner, but doubts loom over his recovery.
- Axar Patel: A reliable allrounder, capable with both bat and ball.
- Ravindra Jadeja: While his place is uncertain, he could still play a key role in the spin attack.
If Kuldeep doesn’t make it, Varun Chakravarthy, who performed well in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, could be a surprising pick as a backup wrist spinner.
FAQs
Q1: Will Yashasvi Jaiswal get his ODI debut?
A1: It’s possible. Jaiswal’s impressive domestic record makes him a strong contender, especially with his left-handed batting style.
Q2: Does Ravindra Jadeja still have a place in India’s ODI squad?
A2: Jadeja’s place is uncertain due to the rise of new allrounders, but his experience could still earn him a spot.
Q3: Who will be India’s second wicketkeeper in the Champions Trophy?
A3: KL Rahul will be the first-choice keeper, while Sanju Samson or Rishabh Pant could be the backup.
Q4: Is Jasprit Bumrah fit for the Champions Trophy?
A4: Bumrah’s fitness is still uncertain, as the BCCI has not disclosed details about his injury. His status will be assessed closer to the tournament.
Stay tuned to FindCric.com for all the latest updates on India’s squad selections and preparations for the Champions Trophy!